Former Aston Villa midfielder Craig Gardner says it's a dream come true to be joining Birmingham City.

Gardner, who signed a four-and-a-half-year St Andrew's contract, said he had to thank Martin O'Neill for agreeing to his sale, even though he froze him out of the Villa side this season.

"People say when you become a footballer it's a dream come true but when you sign for the club you support, what more can you ask for? You just pinch yourself,'' he told the Birmingham Mail.

"I don't think I've had more than three hours sleep this week.

"I've been on to my agent all the time asking 'is it done, is it done'? and in the end he just told me to relax.

"I just can't wait to put that blue and white shirt on, score some goals and help Birmingham City pick up points.

"There's pressure on me. They've invested money in me and I've got to respond.

"There's a responsibility on my shoulders now. I was just the boy who came through the ranks - now I'm the man Blues have paid £3.5 million for.

"I want to prove why I am worth that money to the fans, why the chairman has paid that money and why the manager wanted me.

"I won't let them down, I won't let anybody down."